Tales & Trails of America's First Frontier

Video Tour

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area

Early settlers in what is now Northeast Tennessee defied a royal ordinance stating colonists could not move west of the Appalachian Mountains. Yet despite their unlawful actions, these “Overmountain Men” ultimately saved the American Revolution. In 1780, 1,100 of these brave pioneers gathered at Sycamore Shoals before embarking on a two-week march to King’s Mountain, SC. Once there, they swiftly defeated the larger British army, ensuring victory for the “Americans.” Today, visitors to Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area can get a hands-on look at the original frontier and learn the history behind the first permanent settlement outside the 13 colonies. The park is home to countless 18th century artifacts, as well as an outdoor drama, “Liberty: The Saga of Sycamore Shoals,” depicting the story of these historic people.

1651 West Elk Avenue
Elizabethton, TN 37643
(423) 543-5808
tn.gov/environment/parks